An ongoing event in the Capital aims to take forward the renewed interest in Buddhist thought to the audience through celebrated works of visual and performing arts, and other forms of creative and cultural expression, philosophy, discourse and discussions related to Buddhism from across the world.
Organised by the International Buddhist Confederation, NETPAC India, and Alliance Francaise de Delhi, in association with the Korean Cultural Centre, The Inner Path Festival of Buddhism, is now in its third year. This time, it is showcasing over 16 feature and documentary films, art and photography exhibitions by over 20 artists, an art camp, painting demonstrations and musical performances.
A still from Dharma River
"I discovered in 2011 that there are Buddhist film festivals all over the world, but not in India. That is when we decided to introduce this concept here. We didn't want just a film festival, so we made it into a bigger art and culture event where masses could enjoy and understand Buddhism," says Aruna Vasudeva, president of the Network for Promotion of Asian Cinema.
{{/usCountry}}"I discovered in 2011 that there are Buddhist film festivals all over the world, but not in India. That is when we decided to introduce this concept here. We didn't want just a film festival, so we made it into a bigger art and culture event where masses could enjoy and understand Buddhism," says Aruna Vasudeva, president of the Network for Promotion of Asian Cinema.
{{/usCountry}}The four-day festival opened with a recital by the internationally renowned singing nun, Venerable Ani Choying Drolma from Nepal, and will also see artists like Arpana Caur, Shobha Broota, Jamyang Dorjee Chakrishar, Cannon Hersey, Saba Hasan, Qamar Dagar, Vinita Dasgupta, Jasleen, Rajeev Kumar, Bryan Mulvihill and Shefali Munjal. The closing ceremony will have performances by the Kungfu Nuns from Ladakh.
The Inner Path Festival of Buddhism is now in its third year
"I am glad to be a part of this festival where I will be showcasing my ceramic artwork. It has specially been made for this festival and will be a biographical journey of the life of Buddha. The circle, which is an important symbol of continuity and life, can be spotted throughout my works," says artist Siraj Saxena, whose works are on display at the fest.
Catch it Live
What: The Inner Path Festival of Buddhism
On till: November 24
Where: 72, KK Birla Marg, Lodhi Estate
Timings: 9am-5pm
Nearest metro station: Jor Bagh on the Yellow Line